Guide to Eloping in Girdwood, AK
If you’re dreaming of snow-capped peaks, mossy forests, moody Alaska aesthetic — Girdwood is calling. Just 45 minutes from Anchorage, this little ski town is a hidden gem for couples who want to elope in nature without losing the cozy luxury vibes. As an Alaska-based elopement photographer, I’ve captured countless love stories in Girdwood and I’m here to spill all (well, some of) the local secrets to help you dream up your perfect day!
Whether you're taking a tram to the top of Alyeska, saying vows in the forest, or popping champagne by the fire, this guide has everything you need to start planning your time in Girdwood, Alaska for your elopement.
Why Elope in Girdwood?
It’s not far from Anchorage and the airport, but as soon as you leave the Anchorage city limits you’re treated to some of my favorite views in Alaska along the Seward highway. It’s less than an hour drive and you are transported to a storybook ski town.
Girdwood is lovely year round (well, except for breakup season in the spring, but that’s not her fault). I’ve photographed fall elopements, winter elopements, and summer elopements and they all have a different beautiful feel.
Epic views with minimal travel/hiking required - if you’re not trying to break a sweat on your elopement day but still want epic views or the feeling of being deep in the forest, Girdwood has some unique spots that fit the bill.
Girdwood has some of the best food in Alaska if I do say so myself, from the Bake Shop (the Shepherds Omelet is my go to) to Double Musky (incredible cajun inspired cuisine).
And that’s just scratching the surface. If you’re considering an Alaska destination elopement or intimate wedding, Girdwood should be high on your list of options.
Best Time of Year to Elope in Girdwood
Honestly, the best time to elope in Alaska is literally anytime other than “spring” (end of March/April). It depends on the year but usually it’s just kind of muddy and brown. I highly recommend literally any other time BUT if that’s the only window that works for you, I have some secret spots that are the vibe year round! I digress. Here’s what you’d get in Girdwood depending on the season:
Winter: snowy forests, ski-lodge vibes, hot drinks + cozy cabins
Summer: lush greenery, almost uninterrupted daylight, warmer temps
Fall: alaska fall colors and fewer tourists
Bonus Tip: Girdwood can be rainy — embrace the cozy mood or pack clear umbrellas!
Top Elopement Locations in Girdwood
I can’t share all of my secrets (LNT and all that) but one of the most popular locations is Virgin Creek Falls – it’s a short walk to a beautiful waterfall! This could be your ceremony spot, or a secondary location for magical photos later.
What to Do After Your Elopement
Another way Girdwood shines - so many activities!
For food after (or before?) your elopement - Jack Sprat or Double Musky for dinner, or grab a couple beers and sit by the fire looking at the mountains at Girdwood Brewing!
A Girdwood must - Alyeska Nordic Spa! You can book couples massage, or just hangout in the hot and cold pools and eat at the Bistro. Yum.
There are tons of cute Airbnbs to stay in - or if you prefer a hotel, you can stay at Alyeska Resort! Extend your trip for a mini honeymoon and go skiing or snowboarding if that’s your thing.
You can also take a helicopter to a glacier, go dogsledding, or check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to get to see some of Alaska’s wild creatures up close. (these adventures can be incorporated into your elopement day too!).
Girdwood Elopement Logistics
A few nitty gritty things you might also want to know:
You’ll get your Alaska marriage license from Anchorage - it’s $60 and there’s a 3 day waiting period from the date you obtain the license to the day you say your vows.
For officiants, I’ve got a list of people I recommend that do a beauuuutiful job.
Always have backup layers + plans to prepare for the weather! I help with suggestions for this depending on the season, and I also have planners I can recommend to take that completely off your plate.
What to Pack for Your Girdwood Elopement
Here’s a mini Alaska elopement packing list! Girdwood elopement essentials and some other things you might want in your suitcase, or to acquire when you arrive in Alaska for your elopement day:
layers, rain gear, waterproof shoes
vow books, rings
hand warmers or bug spray depending on the season
florals that can handle Alaska weather (I’ve got recs!)
Hire a Girdwood Elopement Photographer
That would be me 👋 I’m Rachel! I don’t just take pretty pictures (because I definitely do that for you), I also focus on helping you feel present with your love and the adventure you’re embarking on together.
Whether you want a chill morning getting ready in a cabin or a wild adventure (or both), I’m here to capture it in a way that feels seamless, intentional, and unforgettable. Ready to start planning?
Let’s Make Some Magic
If this has piqued your interest and you’ve started dreaming of what it could look like to elope in Girdwood, I’d love to photograph your day in all of its glory. Let’s see if I’m the photographer for you!
and follow me on instagram in the meantime! ♡
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